Forest Survey Warning Ignored: Government’s Move Sparks Debate
The Aravalli Hills, one of India’s oldest and most ecologically significant mountain ranges, have once again come under the spotlight. Despite repeated red flags from the Forest Survey of India (FSI) about rapid environmental degradation, the government’s recent decision removed green protection status from nearly 90 percent of the Aravalli region. This move has triggered concerns among environmental experts, ecologists, activists, and urban planners.
What the Forest Survey Red-Flagged
The Forest Survey of India has consistently highlighted:
Severe land degradation across the Aravalli belt
Fast-declining forest cover in Haryana and Rajasthan
Accelerated desertification risks due to mining and encroachments
Groundwater depletion linked to vanishing green areas
Rising temperatures and disappearance of natural barriers
These warnings reinforced the need for strict conservation, tighter regulations, and sustained government protection.
What the Government Decision Means
The recent policy shift removes green shield protection from almost 90 percent of the Aravalli hills, opening large portions of the region to:
Real estate expansion
Construction activity
Mining operations
Commercial exploitation
Officials have argued that the reclassification aims to streamline land use and encourage development. However, environmental scientists warn that such a move could push the region closer to irreversible ecological damage.
Environmental Consequences of Removing the Green Shield
1. Increased Desertification
The Aravalli range acts as a natural barrier preventing the Thar Desert from shifting eastward. Weakening this shield could accelerate desertification in NCR and surrounding areas.
2. Groundwater Crisis
Green loss directly impacts water recharge. With the Aravallis already degraded, further weakening could worsen groundwater scarcity across Delhi, Gurgaon, and Rajasthan.
3. Heat Island Expansion
Forest cover helps regulate local temperatures. Removing protections may worsen heatwaves and air quality in urban centres.
4. Biodiversity Threat
The range is home to leopards, hyenas, antelopes, and numerous bird species. Habitat fragmentation could wipe out already vulnerable populations.
Public and Expert Response
Environmental experts have criticized the decision, stating that weakening protections contradicts India’s climate commitments. Urban planners warn that ignoring FSI recommendations could lead to severe consequences for the National Capital Region.
Several civil society groups are calling for a review of the decision, citing transparency, environmental duty, and long-term public interest.
FAQs
1. What did the Forest Survey warn about the Aravalli Hills?
The FSI reported severe land degradation, declining forest cover, desertification risks, and groundwater depletion, urging strong protection measures.
2. Why did the government remove the green shield?
The government claims the reclassification supports streamlined development and land-use clarity, though experts disagree.
3. How will removing protection impact NCR?
It may worsen air pollution, accelerate desertification, reduce groundwater availability, and increase temperatures.
4. What is the importance of Aravalli Hills?
They act as a climate regulator, desert barrier, wildlife habitat, and groundwater recharge zone essential for northern India.
5. How does Finance connect to this issue?
Environmental stability directly impacts economic growth, investment, agriculture, and long-term financial planning. Finance promotes sustainable economic outlooks.
source credit : Jay Mazoomdaar
Published on : 27th November
Published by : RAHAMATH
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